The Meaning of Hebrews 10:1 Explained

Hebrews 10:1

KJV: For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.

YLT: For the law having a shadow of the coming good things -- not the very image of the matters, every year, by the same sacrifices that they offer continually, is never able to make perfect those coming near,

Darby: For the law, having a shadow of the coming good things, not the image itself of the things, can never, by the same sacrifices which they offer continually yearly, perfect those who approach.

ASV: For the law having a shadow of the good things to come, not the very image of the things, can never with the same sacrifices year by year, which they offer continually, make perfect them that draw nigh.

KJV Reverse Interlinear

For  the law  having  a shadow  of good things  to come,  [and] not  the very  image  of the things,  can  never  with those  sacrifices  which  they offered  year by year  continually  make  the comers thereunto  perfect. 

What does Hebrews 10:1 Mean?

Study Notes

perfect
.
The word implies full development, growth into maturity of godliness, not sinless perfection. Ephesians 4:12 ; Ephesians 4:13 . In this passage the Father's kindness, not His sinlessness, is the point in question. Luke 6:35 ; Luke 6:36

Verse Meaning

The very nature of the Mosaic Law made it impossible to bring believers into intimate relationship with God since it dealt with externals.
"Both Paul and our author speak of the law as "a shadow"; but whereas Paul in Colossians 2:17 has in mind the legal restrictions of Old Testament times (food-laws and regulations about special days), our author is thinking more especially of the law prescribing matters of priesthood and sacrifice in relation to the wilderness tabernacle and the Jerusalem temple." [1]
"The "shadow" [2] then is the preliminary outline that an artist may make before he gets to his colors, and the eikon [3] is the finished portrait. The author is saying that the law is no more than a preliminary sketch. It shows the shape of things to come, but the solid reality is not there." [4]
"Make perfect" does not mean to make sinless but to make acceptable to God. Jesus Christ provided perfect cleansing for us by His death, as the following verses show.
"This verse (and in fact the whole chapter) continues our writer"s argument regarding the superiority of the sacrifice of Christ over the Mosaic rites." [5]

Context Summary

Hebrews 10:1-10 - "lo, I Come To Do Thy Will"
When a heavenly body is in eclipse it can be examined with even greater precision than when the astronomer's eye is directed toward its burning glory; so in Leviticus we can discover details of our Lord's atonement otherwise overlooked. This is notably the case in Leviticus 1:1-17; Leviticus 2:1-16; Leviticus 3:1-17; Leviticus 4:1-35.
The keywords of this chapter are year by year and day by day as contrasted with continually and forever. Repetition means imperfection. The ancient offerers of sacrifice could never be sure that they were finally accepted. Each year they had to go over the odd ground. How different from us, who have heard Jesus say, "It is finished"!
The spirit of inspiration offers to us the secret of our Savior's work in His voluntary identification with the divine purposes. It was not so much His outward anguish and blood-shedding that made reconciliation possible, as His cry, "Not my will, my Father, but thine." His attitude reminds us of the ancient custom of boring fast to the door the ear of the servant, who desired never again to leave His master's service. "Mine ears hast thou bored." See Psalms 40:6, margin. [source]

Chapter Summary: Hebrews 10

1  The weakness of the law sacrifices
10  The sacrifice of Christ's body once offered,
14  for ever has taken away sins
19  An exhortation to hold fast the faith with patience and thanksgiving

Greek Commentary for Hebrews 10:1

Shadow [σκιαν]
The contrast here between σκια — skia (shadow, shade caused by interruption of light as by trees, Mark 4:32) and εικων — eikōn (image or picture) is striking. Christ is the εικων — eikōn of God (2 Corinthians 4:4; Colossians 1:15). In Colossians 2:17 Paul draws a distinction between σκια — skia for the Jewish rites and ceremonies and σωμα — sōma for the reality in Christ. Children are fond of shadow pictures. The law gives only a dim outline of the good things to come (Hebrews 9:11). Continually See this phrase also in Hebrews 7:3; Hebrews 9:12, Hebrews 9:14. Nowhere else in N.T. From διηνεγκα — diēnegka This reading leaves ο νομος — ho nomos a nominativus pendens (an anacoluthon). But many MSS. read δυναται — dunatai (it - the law - can). For the idea and use of τελειωσαι — teleiōsai see Hebrews 9:9. [source]
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d The arrangement of the verse is much disputed. Rend. “The law, with the same sacrifices which they continually renew year by year, can never make the comers thereunto perfect.” [source]
A shadow [σκιὰν]
The emphasis is on this thought. The legal system was a shadow. Σκιὰ is a rude outline, an adumbration, contrasted with εἰκὼν , the archetypal or ideal pattern. Σκιὰ does not accurately exhibit the figure itself. Comp. Hebrews 8:5. [source]
Of good things to come [τῶν μελλόντων ἀγαθῶν]
From the point of view of the law. [source]
The very image of the things [αὐτὴν τὴν εἰκόνα τῶν πραγμάτων]
For εἰκὼν imagesee on Revelation 13:14; see on Philemon 2:7. Πραγμάτων thingsexpresses a little more distinctly than μελλόντων the idea of facts and realities. [source]
Can [δύναται]
Δύναται might be expected with ὁ νόμος thelaw as the subject. If δύναται , the plural, is retained, the clause the law - image of the things must be taken absolutely, the construction of the sentence breaking off suddenly, and the subject being changed from the law to the priests: “The priests can never,” etc. It is better to read δύναται in the singular, with Tischendorf, Westcott and Hort, and Weiss. [source]
Continually [εἰς τὸ διηνεκὲς]
See on Hebrews 7:3, and comp. Hebrews 10:12, Hebrews 10:14. Const. with offer. [source]

Reverse Greek Commentary Search for Hebrews 10:1

Mark 16:19 Sat down at the right hand of God [εκατισεν εκ δεχιων του τεου]
Swete notes that the author “passes beyond the field of history into that of theology,” an early and most cherished belief (Acts 7:55.; Romans 8:34; Ephesians 1:20; Colossians 3:1; Hebrews 1:3; Hebrews 8:1; Hebrews 10:12; Hebrews 12:2; 1 Peter 3:22; Revelation 3:21). [source]
John 16:22 Have sorrow [λύπην ἔχετε]
This form of expression occurs frequently in the New Testament, to denote the possession or experience of virtues, sensations, desires, emotions, intellectual or spiritual faculties, faults, or defects. It is stronger than the verb which expresses any one of these. For instance, to have faith is stronger than to believe: to have life, than the act of living. It expresses a distinct, personal realization of the virtue or fault or sentiment in question. Hence, to have sorrow is more than to be sorrowful. In Matthew 17:20, Christ does not say if ye believe, but if ye have faith; if faith, in ever so small a degree, is possessed by you as a conscious, living principle and motive. Compare have love (John 13:35; 1 John 4:16); have peace (John 16:33); have trust (2 Corinthians 3:4); have boldness (Hebrews 10:19; 1 John 2:28). [source]
Acts 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord [λειτουργουντων αυτων τοι κυριωι]
Genitive absolute of λειτουργεω — leitourgeō old verb, used of the Attic orators who served the state at their own cost λεως — leōs or λαος — laos people, and εργον — ergon work or service). Common in the lxx of the priests who served in the tabernacle (Exodus 28:31, Exodus 28:39) like λειτουργια — leitourgia (Luke 1:23) which see. So in Hebrews 10:11. In Romans 15:27 of aiding others in poverty. Here of worship (prayer, exhortation, fasting). The word liturgy grows out of this use. [source]
Acts 13:24 Before his coming [προ προσωπου της εισοδου αυτου]
Literally, before the face of his entering in (here act of entrance as 1 Thessalonians 1:9, not the gate as in Hebrews 10:19). See Malachi 3:1 quoted in Matthew 11:10 (Luke 7:27) for this Hebrew phrase and also Luke 1:76. The baptism of repentance (βαπτισμα μετανοιας — baptisma metanoias). Baptism marked by, characterized by (genitive case, case of kind or species) repentance (change of mind and life). The very phrase used of John‘s preaching in Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3. It is clear therefore that Paul understood John‘s ministry and message as did Peter (Acts 2:38; Acts 10:37). [source]
Romans 6:10 Once [ἐφάπαξ]
More literally, as Rev., in margin, once for all. Compare Hebrews 7:27; Hebrews 9:12; Hebrews 10:10. [source]
Romans 3:25 Propitiation [ἱλαστήριον]
This word is most important, since it is the key to the conception of Christ's atoning work. In the New Testament it occurs only here and Hebrews 9:5; and must be studied in connection with the following kindred words: ἱλάσκομαι which occurs in the New Testament only Luke 18:13, God be merciful, and Hebrews 2:17, to make reconciliation. Ἱλασμός twice, 1 John 2:2; 1 John 4:10; in both cases rendered propitiation. The compound ἐξιλάσκομαι , which is not found in the New Testament, but is frequent in the Septuagint and is rendered purge, cleanse, reconcile, make atonement. Septuagint usage. These words mostly represent the Hebrew verb kaphar to cover or conceal, and its derivatives. With only seven exceptions, out of about sixty or seventy passages in the Old Testament, where the Hebrew is translated by atone or atonement, the Septuagint employs some part or derivative of ἱλάσκομαι or ἐξιλάσκομαι or Ἱλασμός or ἐξιλασμός is the usual Septuagint translation for kippurim covering for sin, A.V., atonement. Thus sin-offerings of atonement; day of atonement; ram of the atonement. See Exodus 29:36; Exodus 30:10; Leviticus 23:27; Numbers 5:8, etc. They are also used for chattath sin-offering, Ezekiel 44:27; Ezekiel 45:19; and for selichah forgiveness. Psalm 129:4; Daniel 9:9. -DIVIDER-
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These words are always used absolutely, without anything to mark the offense or the person propitiated. -DIVIDER-
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Ἱλάσκομαι , which is comparatively rare, occurs as a translation of kipher to cover sin, Psalm 65:3; Psalm 78:38; Psalm 79:9; A.V., purge away, forgive, pardon. Of salach to bear away as a burden, 2 Kings 5:18; Psalm 25:11: A.V., forgive, pardon. It is used with the accusative (direct objective) case, marking the sin, or with the dative (indirect objective), as be conciliated to our sins. -DIVIDER-
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Ἑξιλάσκομαι mostly represents kipher to cover, and is more common than the simple verb. Thus, purge the altar, Ezekiel 43:26; cleanse the sanctuary, Ezekiel 45:20; reconcile the house, Daniel 9:24. It is found with the accusative case of that which is cleansed; with the preposition περί concerningas “for your sin,” Exodus 32:30; with the preposition ὑπέρ onbehalf of A.V., for, Ezekiel 45:17; absolutely, to make an atonement, Leviticus 16:17; with the preposition ἀπό fromas “cleansed from the blood,” Numbers 35:33. There are but two instances of the accusative of the person propitiated: appease him, Genesis 32:20; pray before (propitiate) the Lord, Zechariah 7:2. -DIVIDER-
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Ἱλαστηριον , A.V., propitiation, is almost always used in the Old Testament of the mercy-seat or golden cover of the ark, and this is its meaning in Hebrews 9:5, the only other passage of the New Testament in which it is found. In Ezekiel 43:14, Ezekiel 43:17, Ezekiel 43:20, it means a ledge round a large altar, and is rendered settle in A.V.; Rev., ledge, in margin. -DIVIDER-
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This term has been unduly pressed into the sense of explanatory sacrifice. In the case of the kindred verbs, the dominant Old-Testament sense is not propitiation in the sense of something offered to placate or appease anger; but atonement or reconciliation, through the covering, and so getting rid of the sin which stands between God and man. The thrust of the idea is upon the sin or uncleanness, not upon the offended party. Hence the frequent interchange with ἀγιάζω tosanctify, and καθαρίζω tocleanse. See Ezekiel 43:26, where ἐξιλάσονται shallpurge, and καθαριοῦσιν shallpurify, are used coordinately. See also Exodus 30:10, of the altar of incense: “Aaron shall make an atonement ( ἐξιλάσεται ) upon the horns of it - with the blood of the sin-offering of atonement ” ( καθαρισμοῦ purification). Compare Leviticus 16:20. The Hebrew terms are also used coordinately. -DIVIDER-
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Our translators frequently render the verb kaphar by reconcile, Leviticus 6:30; Leviticus 16:20; Ezekiel 45:20. In Leviticus 8:15, Moses put blood upon the horns of the altar and cleansed ( ἐκαθάρισε ) the altar, and sanctified ( ἡγίασεν ) it, to make reconciliation ( τοῦ ἐξιλάσασθαι ) upon it. Compare Ezekiel 45:15, Ezekiel 45:17; Hebrews 10:19-21. -DIVIDER-
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The verb and its derivatives occur where the ordinary idea of expiation is excluded. As applied to an altar or to the walls of a house (Leviticus 14:48-53), this idea could have no force, because these inanimate things, though ceremonially unclean, could have no sin to be expiated. Moses, when he went up to make atonement for the idolatry at Sinai, offered no sacrifice, but only intercession. See also the case of Korah, Numbers 16:46; the cleansing of leprosy and of mothers after childbirth, Leviticus href="/desk/?q=le+12:7&sr=1">Leviticus 12:7; Leviticus 15:30; the reformation of Josiah, Ezra href="/desk/?q=ezr+10:1-15&sr=1">Ezra 10:1-15; the offering of the Israelite army after the defeat of Midian. They brought bracelets, rings, etc., to make an atonement ( ἐξιλάσασθαι ) before the Lord; not expiatory, but a memorial, Numbers 31:50-54. The Passover was in no sense expiatory; but Paul says, “Christ our Passover was sacrificed for us; therefore purge out ( ἐκκαθάρατε ) the old leaven. Let us keep the feast with sincerity and truth;” 1 Corinthians 5:7, 1 Corinthians 5:8. -DIVIDER-
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In the Old Testament the idea of sacrifice as in itself a propitiation continually recedes before that of the personal character lying back of sacrifice, and which alone gives virtue to it. See 1 Samuel 15:22; Psalm 40:6-10; Psalm 50:8-14, Psalm 50:23; Psalm 51:16, Psalm 51:17; Isaiah 1:11-18; Jeremiah 7:21-23; Amos 5:21-24; Micah 6:6-8. This idea does not recede in the Old Testament to be reemphasized in the New. On the contrary, the New Testament emphasizes the recession, and lays the stress upon the cleansing and life-giving effect of the sacrifice of Christ. See John 1:29; Colossians 1:20-22; Hebrews 9:14; Daniel 9:24; 1 Peter 2:24; 1 John 1:7; 1 John 4:10-13. -DIVIDER-
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The true meaning of the offering of Christ concentrates, therefore, not upon divine justice, but upon human character; not upon the remission of penalty for a consideration, but upon the deliverance from penalty through moral transformation; not upon satisfying divine justice, but upon bringing estranged man into harmony with God. As Canon Westcott remarks: “The scripture conception of ἱλάσκεσθαι is not that of appeasing one who is angry with a personal feeling against the offender, but of altering the character of that which, from without, occasions a necessary alienation, and interposes an inevitable obstacle to fellowship” (Commentary on St. John's Epistles, p. 85). -DIVIDER-
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In the light of this conception we are brought back to that rendering of ἱλαστήριον which prevails in the Septuagint, and which it has in the only other New-Testament passage where it occurs (Hebrews 9:5) - mercy-seat; a rendering, maintained by a large number of the earlier expositors, and by some of the ablest of the moderns. That it is the sole instance of its occurrence in this sense is a fact which has its parallel in the terms Passover, Door, Rock, Amen, Day-spring, and others, applied to Christ. To say that the metaphor is awkward counts for nothing in the light of other metaphors of Paul. To say that the concealment of the ark is inconsistent with set forth is to adduce the strongest argument in favor of this rendering. The contrast with set forth falls in perfectly with the general conception. That mercy-seat which was veiled, and which the Jew could approach only once a fear, and then through the medium of the High-Priest, is now brought out where all can draw nigh and experience its reconciling power (Hebrews 10:19, Hebrews 10:22; compare Hebrews 9:8). “The word became flesh and dwelt among us. We beheld His glory. We saw and handled” (John 1:14; 1 John 1:1-3). The mercy-seat was the meetingplace of God and man (Exodus 25:17-22; Leviticus 16:2; Numbers 7:89); the place of mediation and manifestation. Through Christ, the antitype of the mercy-seat, the Mediator, man has access to the Father (Ephesians 2:18). As the golden surface covered the tables of the law, so Christ stands over the law, vindicating it as holy and just and good, and therewith vindicating the divine claim to obedience and holiness. As the blood was annually sprinkled on the golden cover by the High-Priest, so Christ is set forth “in His blood,” not shed to appease God's wrath, to satisfy God's justice, nor to compensate for man's disobedience, but as the highest expression of divine love for man, taking common part with humanity even unto death, that it might reconcile it through faith and self-surrender to God.Through faithConnect with propitiation (mercy-seat). The sacrifice of Christ becomes effective through the faith which appropriates it. Reconciliation implies two parties. “No propitiation reaches the mark that does not on its way, reconcile or bring into faith, the subject for whom it is made. There is no God-welcome prepared which does not open the guilty heart to welcome God” (Bushnell).In His bloodConstrue with set forth, and render as Rev., by His blood; i.e., in that He caused Him to shed His blood.To declare His righteousness ( εἱς ἔνδειξιν τῆς δικαιοσύνης αὐτοῦ )Lit., for a shewing, etc. Rev., to shew. For practical proof or demonstration. Not, as so often explained, to shew God's righteous indignation against sin by wreaking its penalty on the innocent Christ. The shewing of the cross is primarily the shewing of God's love and yearning to be at one with man (John 3:14-17). The righteousness of God here is not His “judicial” or “punitive” righteousness, but His righteous character, revealing its antagonism to sin in its effort to save man from his sin, and put forward as a ground of mercy, not as an obstacle to mercy.For the remission of sins that are past ( διὰ τὴν πάρεσιν τῶν προγεγονότων ἁμαρτημάτων )Rev., correctly, because of the passing over of the sins done aforetime. Passing over, praetermission, differs from remission ( ἄφεσις ). In remission guilt and punishment are sent away; in praetermission they are wholly or partially undealt with. Compare Acts 14:16; Acts 17:30. Ἁμάρτημα sinis the separate and particular deed of disobedience, while ἁμαρτία includes sin in the abstract - sin regarded as sinfulness. Sins done aforetime are the collective sins of the world before Christ.Through the forbearance of God ( ἐν τῇ ἀνοχῇ τοῦ Θεοῦ )Rev., in the forbearance. Construe with the passing by. The word ἀνοχή forbearancefrom ἀνέχω tohold up, occurs in the New Testament only here and Romans 2:4. It is not found in the Septuagint proper, and is not frequent in classical Greek, where it is used of a holding back or stopping of hostilities; a truce; in later Greek, a permission. The passage has given much trouble to expositors, largely, I think, through their insisting on the sense of forbearance with reference to sins - the toleration or refraining from punishment of sins done aforetime. But it is a fair construction of the term to apply it, in its primary sense of holding back, to the divine method of dealing with sin. It cannot be said that God passed over the sins of the world before Christ without penalty, for that is plainly contradicted by Romans 1:18-32; but He did pass them over in the sense that He did not apply, but held back the redeeming agency of God manifest in the flesh until the “fullness of time.” The sacrifices were a homage rendered to God's righteousness, but they did not touch sin with the power and depth which attached to Christ's sacrifice. No demonstration of God's righteousness and consequent hatred of sin, could be given equal to that of the life and death of Jesus. Hence Paul, as I take it, says: God set forth Christ as the world's mercy-seat, for the showing forth of His righteousness, because previously He had given no such manifestation of His righteousness, but had held it back, passing over, with the temporary institution of sacrifices, the sin at the roots of which He finally struck in the sacrifice of Christ. -DIVIDER-
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Romans 6:9 Dieth no more [ουκετι αποτνησκει]
“Christ‘s particular death occurs but once” (Shedd). See note on Hebrews 10:10. A complete refutation of the “sacrificial” character of the “mass.” [source]
1 Corinthians 11:33 Tarry [ἐκδέχεσθε]
In the usual New-Testament sense, as John 5:3; Acts 17:16; though in some cases the idea of expectancy is emphasized, as Hebrews 10:13; Hebrews 11:10; James 5:7. Some render receive ye one another, in contrast with despising the poorer guests; but this is not according to New-Testament usage. [source]
2 Corinthians 3:16 Shall be taken away [περιαιρεῖται]
Rev., correctly, is taken away. The verb occurs twice in Acts (Acts 27:20, Acts 27:40) of the taking away of hope, and of the unfastening of the anchors in Paul's shipwreck; and in Hebrews 10:11, of the taking away of sins. There is an allusion here to the removal of the veil from Moses' face whenever he returned to commune with God. See Exodus 34:34. [source]
2 Corinthians 13:11 Finally [λοιπόν]
Lit., as for the rest. Sometimes rendered now, as Matthew 26:45. “Sleep on now,” for the time that remains. Besides, as 1 Corinthians 1:16. It remaineth, 1 Corinthians 7:29. Henceforth, 2 Timothy 4:8; Hebrews 10:13. Often as here, finally. In every case the idea of something left over is at the bottom of the translation. [source]
Colossians 2:17 A shadow [σκια]
Old word, opposed to substance In Hebrews 10:1 σκια — skia is distinguished from εικων — eikōn (picture), but here from σωμα — sōma (body, substance). The σωμα — sōma (body) casts the σκια — skia (shadow) and so belongs to Christ (Χριστου — Christou genitive case). [source]
2 Timothy 4:8 Henceforth [λοιπὸν]
Lit. as to what remains. Λοιπὸν or τὸ λοιπὸν either finally, as 2 Corinthians 13:11; or henceforth as here, Mark 14:41; 1 Corinthians 7:29, Hebrews 10:13: or for the rest, besides, as 1 Thessalonians 4:1(note); 2 Thessalonians 3:1. [source]
Hebrews 9:8 The way into the holiest of all [τὴν τῶν ἁγίων ὁδὸν]
Lit. the way of the holies. For the construction comp. ὸδὸν ἐθνῶν wayof the Gentiles, Mark 10:5. The phrase N.T.o Τῶν ἀγίων as in Hebrews 9:12, Hebrews 9:24, Hebrews 9:25; Hebrews 10:19. [source]
Hebrews 9:22 And without shedding of blood is no remission [καὶ χωρὶς αἱματεκχυσίας οὐ γίνεται ἄφεσις]
This sentence also is covered by “I may almost say.” It does not state that without shedding of blood there is no remission of sins, which “would be in conflict with the history and literature of the Old Testament.” See exceptions above. Ἁιματεκχυσία sheddingof blood, N.T.oolxx, oClass. Οὐ γίνεται ἄφεσις , lit. remission does not take place or ensue. For ἄφεσις see on James 5:15; most frequent in Luke and Acts. In Hebrews only here and Hebrews 10:18. Commonly with a genitive, in the phrase remission of sins: but sometimes absolutely as here, Mark 3:29; Luke 4:18. [source]
Hebrews 9:16 There must also of necessity be the death of the testator [θάνατου ἀνάγκη φέρεσθαι τοῦ διαθεμένου]
Rend. it is necessary that the death of the institutor (of the covenant ) should be borne. With the rendering testament, φέρεσθαι is well-nigh inexplicable. If covenant the meaning is not difficult. If he had meant to say it is necessary that the institutor die, he might better have used γένεσθαι : “it is necessary that the death of the institutor take place ”; but he meant to say that it was necessary that the institutor die representatively; that death should be borne for him by an animal victim. If we render testament, it follows that the death of the testator himself is referred to, for which θάνατου φέρεσθαι is a very unusual and awkward expression. Additional Note on Hebrews 9:16Against the rendering testament for διαθήκη , and in favor of retaining covenant, are the following considerations: (a) The abruptness of the change, and its interruption of the line of reasoning. It is introduced into the middle of a continuous argument, in which the new covenant is compared and contrasted with the Mosaic covenant (8:6-10:18). -DIVIDER-
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(b) The turning-point, both of the analogy and of the contrast, is that both covenants were inaugurated and ratified by death: not ordinary, natural death, but sacrificial, violent death, accompanied with bloodshedding as an essential feature. Such a death is plainly indicated in Hebrews 9:15. If διαθήκη signifies testament, θάνατον deathin Hebrews 9:16must mean natural death without bloodshed. -DIVIDER-
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(c) The figure of a testament would not appeal to Hebrews in connection with an inheritance. On the contrary, the idea of the κληρονομία was always associated in the Hebrew mind with the inheritance of Canaan, and that inheritance with the idea of a covenant. See Deuteronomy 4:20-23; 1 Chronicles 16:15-18; Psalm 105:8-11. -DIVIDER-
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(d) In lxx, from which our writer habitually quotes, διαθήκη has universally the meaning of covenant. It occurs about 350 times, mostly representing בְּרִית, covenant. In the Apocryphal books it has the same sense, except in Exodus href="/desk/?q=ex+30:26&sr=1">Exodus 30:26; Numbers 14:44; 2 Kings 6:15; Jeremiah 3:16; Malachi 3:1; Luke 1:72, Acts 3:25; Acts 7:8. Also in N.T. quotations from the O.T., where, in its translation of the O.T., it uses foedus. See Jeremiah 31:31, cit. Hebrews 8:8. For διατιθέσθαι of making a covenant, see Hebrews 8:10; Acts 3:25; Hebrews 10:16. -DIVIDER-
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(e) The ratification of a covenant by the sacrifice of a victim is attested by Genesis 15:10; Psalm 1:5; Jeremiah 34:18. This is suggested also by the phrase כָּרַֽת בְּרִֽת, to cut a covenant, which finds abundant analogy in both Greek and Latin. Thus we have ὅρκια τάμνειν tocut oaths, that is, to sacrifice a victim in attestation (Hom. Il. ii. 124; Od. xxiv. 483: Hdt. vii. 132). Similarly, σπονδὰς letus cut (make ) a league (Eurip. Hel. 1235): φίλια τέμνεσθαι tocement friendship by sacrificing a victim; lit. to cut friendship (Eurip. Suppl. 375). In Latin, foedus ferire to strike a league foedus ictum a ratified league, ratified by a blow (ictus ). -DIVIDER-
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(f) If testament is the correct translation in Hebrews 9:16, Hebrews 9:17, the writer is fairly chargeable with a rhetorical blunder; for Hebrews 9:18ff. is plainly intended as a historical illustration of the propositions in Hebrews 9:16, Hebrews 9:17, and the illustration turns on a point entirely different from the matter illustrated. The writer is made to say, “A will is of no force until after the testator's death; therefore the first covenant was ratified with the blood of victims.sa180 [source]

Hebrews 8:2 Of the sanctuary [τῶν ἁγίων]
The heavenly sanctuary. Τὰ ἅγια themost holy place, Hebrews 9:8, Hebrews 9:12, Hebrews 9:25; Hebrews 10:19; Hebrews 13:11. Comp. ἅγια ἀγίων holyof holies, Hebrews 9:3. Ἅγια holyplaces generally, but with special reference to the innermost sanctuary, Hebrews 9:24. [source]
Hebrews 7:11 Perfection [τελείωσις]
Only here and Luke 1:45. The act or process of consummating. By this word is signified the establishment of a perfect fellowship between God and the worshipper. See Hebrews 9:9; Hebrews 10:1. [source]
Hebrews 5:9 And being made perfect [καὶ τελεωθεὶς]
Comp. Hebrews 2:10. The fundamental idea in τελειοῦν is the bringing of a person or thing to the goal fixed by God. Comp. Hebrews 7:11, Hebrews 7:19; Hebrews 9:9; Hebrews 10:1, Hebrews 10:14; Hebrews 11:40; Hebrews 12:23. Here of Christ's having reached the end which was contemplated in his divinely-appointed discipline for the priesthood. The consummation was attained in his death, Philemon 2:8; his obedience extended even unto death. [source]
Hebrews 6:20 Whither the forerunner is for us entered [ὅπου πρόδρομος ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν ιἐσῆλθεν]
Ὅπου , strictly where, instead of ὄποι whither(not in N.T.), but more significant as indicating an abiding there. Πρόδρομος forerunnerN.T.oIt expresses an entirely new idea, lying completely outside of the Levitical system. The Levitical high priest did not enter the sanctuary as a forerunner, but only as the people's representative. He entered a place into which none might follow him; in the people's stead, and not as their pioneer. The peculiarity of the new economy is that Christ as high priest goes nowhere where his people cannot follow him. He introduces man into full fellowship with God. The A.V. entirely misses this point by rendering “the forerunner,” as if the idea of a high priest being a forerunner were perfectly familiar. Rend. whither as a forerunner Jesus entered. Comp. Hebrews 10:19. [source]
Hebrews 13:9 With grace, not with meats [χάριτι οὐ βρώμασιν]
The heart is the proper seat of the work of grace. Free grace is the motive-power of Christ's sacrifice (2 Corinthians 8:9; Galatians 1:15); it is behind the blood of the new covenant, and is the energetic principle of its saving operation. See Romans 5:2, Romans 5:15; 1 Corinthians 15:10; Ephesians 2:5, Ephesians 2:7, Ephesians 2:8; 2 Thessalonians 2:16; Hebrews 2:9; Hebrews 4:16; Hebrews 10:29. With meats stands for the whole system of ceremonial observances, in contrast with grace, working on the heart. See Hebrews 9:10. This ceremonial system yielded no permanent benefit to those who lived under it. See Hebrews 7:25; Hebrews 9:9, Hebrews 9:13, Hebrews 9:14; Hebrews 10:1, Hebrews 10:2, Hebrews 10:4. [source]
Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ the same [Ἱησοῦς Χριστὸς ὁ αὐτός]
The A.V. is slipshod, leaving the sentence without connection, or in apparent apposition with the end of their conversation. In translation this is commonly corrected by inserting is: “Jesus Christ is the same,” etc. But even thus the real point of the statement is missed. No doubt the old teachers believed in the unchangeableness of Jesus Christ; but that fact is not represented as the subject of their faith, which would be irrelevant and somewhat flat. The emphatic point of the statement is Christ. They lived and died in the faith that Jesus is The Christ - the Messiah. The readers were tempted to surrender this faith and to return to Judaism which denied Jesus's messiahship (comp. Hebrews 10:29). Hence the writer says, “hold fast and imitate their faith in Jesus as the Christ. He is ever the same. He must be to you, today, what he was to them, yesterday, and will be forever to the heavenly hosts - Christ. Rend. therefore “Jesus is Christ.” Observe that our writer rarely uses the formula Jesus Christ. In Hebrews 10:10it occurs in a passage in which the messianic mission of Jesus is emphasized (see Hebrews 10:5, Hebrews 10:9), and in Hebrews 13:21, in a liturgical formula. The temptation to forsake Jesus as Messiah is treated in the next verse. [source]
Hebrews 13:14 For here have we no continuing city [οὐ γὰρ ἔχομεν ὧδε μένουσαν πόλιν]
Here, on earth. Continuing city. Let us go forth without the gate to Jesus; for the system which has its center in Jerusalem, the Holy City, is no more ours. We are excluded from its religious fellowship by embracing the faith of him who suffered without the gate. The city itself is not abiding. As a holy city, it is the center and representative of a system of shadows and figures (Hebrews 8:5; Hebrews 9:9, Hebrews 9:23, Hebrews 9:24; Hebrews 10:1), which is to be shaken and removed, even as is the city itself (Hebrews 12:27); Hebrews 8:13; Hebrews 9:10; Hebrews 10:9, Hebrews 10:18. If the epistle had been written after the destruction of Jerusalem a reference to that event could hardly have been avoided here. [source]
Hebrews 12:2 Is set down, etc. []
See Hebrews 1:3, Hebrews 1:13; Hebrews 8:1; Hebrews 10:12. Notice the tenses: endured, aorist, completed: hath sat down, perfect, he remains seated and reigning. [source]
Hebrews 12:2 The author and finisher of our faith [τὸν τῆς πίστεως ἀρχηγὸν καὶ τελειωτὴν]
The A.V. is misleading, and narrows the scope of the passage. For author, rend. leader or captain, and see on Hebrews 2:10. For finisher, rend. perfecter. For our faith, rend. faith or the faith. Not our Christian faith, but faith absolutely, as exhibited in the whole range of believers from Abel to Christ. Christ cannot be called the author or originator of faith, since the faith here treated existed and worked before Christ. Christ is the leader or captain of faith, in that he is the perfecter of faith. In himself he furnished the perfect development, the supreme example of faith, and in virtue of this he is the leader of the whole believing host in all time. Notice the recurrence of the favorite idea of perfecting. Comp. Hebrews 2:10; Hebrews 5:9; Hebrews 6:1; Hebrews 7:11, Hebrews 7:19, Hebrews 7:28; Hebrews 9:9; Hebrews 10:1, Hebrews 10:14; Hebrews 11:40. Τελειωτής perfecterN.T.oolxx, oClass. [source]
Hebrews 10:3 A remembrance of sins [ἀνάμνησις ἁμαρτιῶν]
Each successive sacrifice was a fresh reminder of sins to be atoned for; so far were the sacrifices from satisfying the conscience of the worshipper. Ἀνάμνησις , lit. a calling to mind. Comp. Hebrews 10:17, and see lxx, Numbers 5:15. [source]
Hebrews 10:14 He hath perfected forever [τετελείωκεν εἰς τὸ διηνεκές]
Note the continued emphasis upon the τελείωσις perfection. Comp. Hebrews 7:11, Hebrews 7:19; Hebrews 9:9; Hebrews 10:1; Hebrews 12:2. No more sacrifices are needed. The reign of the Great High Priest is not to be interrupted by the duty of sacrifice. [source]
Hebrews 10:12 Forever [εἰς τὸ διηνεκὲς]
Const. with offered. The reason appears in Hebrews 10:14. It is according to the usage of the epistle to place this phrase after that which it qualifies. Thus one sacrifice forever is contrasted with the same sacrifices often. This agrees also with what follows. He offered one sacrifice forever, and then sat down, awaiting its eternal result. [source]
Hebrews 10:10 Once for all [ἐφάπαξ]
Const. with are sanctified. The sanctification of the Levitical offerings was only temporary, and had to be repeated. Christ's one offering “perfected forever them that are sanctified” (Hebrews 10:14). This thought is elaborated in Hebrews 10:11-14. [source]
Hebrews 10:1 Continually [εἰς τὸ διηνεκὲς]
See on Hebrews 7:3, and comp. Hebrews 10:12, Hebrews 10:14. Const. with offer. [source]
Hebrews 1:6 And again, when he bringeth in, etc. [ὅταν δὲ πάλιν εἰσαγάγῃ]
Const. again with bringeth in. “When he a second time bringeth the first-begotten into the world.” Referring to the second coming of Christ. Others explain again as introducing a new citation as in Hebrews 1:5; but this would require the reading πάλιν δὲ ὅταν andagain, when. In Hebrews, πάλιν , when joined to a verb, always means a second time. See Hebrews 5:12; Hebrews 6:1, Hebrews 6:2. It will be observed that in this verse, and in Hebrews 5:7, Hebrews 5:8, God is conceived as spoken of rather than as speaking; the subject of λέγει saithbeing indefinite. This mode of introducing citations differs from that of Paul. The author's conception of the inspiration of Scripture leads him to regard all utterances of Scripture, without regard to their connection, as distinct utterances of God, or the Holy Spirit, or the Son of God; whereas, by Paul, they are designated either as utterances of Scripture in general, or of individual writers. Very common in this Epistle are the expressions, “God saith, said, spake, testifieth,” or the like. See Hebrews 2:11, Hebrews 2:13; Hebrews 3:7; Hebrews 4:4, Hebrews 4:7; Hebrews 7:21; Hebrews 10:5, Hebrews 10:8, Hebrews 10:15, Hebrews 10:30. Comp. with these Romans 1:17; Romans 2:24; Romans 4:17; Romans 7:7; Romans 9:13; Romans 10:5, Romans 10:16, Romans 10:20, Romans 10:21; Romans 11:2. Ὅταν εἰσαγάγῃ wheneverhe shall have brought. The event is conceived as occurring at an indefinite time in the future, but is viewed as complete. Comp. John 16:4; Acts 24:22. This use of ὅταν with the aorist subjunctive never describes an event or series of events as completed in the past. [source]
Hebrews 1:3 Sat down on the right hand of the majesty on high [ἐκάθισεν ἐν δεξιᾷ τῆς μεγαλωσύνης ἐν ὑψηλοῖς]
Comp. Psalm 110:1, Hebrews 8:1; Hebrews 10:12; Hebrews 12:2; Ephesians 1:20; Revelation 3:21. The verb denotes a solemn, formal act; the assumption of a position of dignity and authority The reference is to Christ's ascension. In his exalted state he will still be bearing on all things toward their consummation, still dealing with sin as the great high priest in the heavenly sanctuary. This is elaborated later. See Hebrews 8:1-13; Hebrews 9:12ff. Μεγαλωσύνη majestyonly here, Hebrews 8:1; Judges 1:25. Quite often in lxx. There is suggested, not a contrast with his humiliation, but his resumption of his original dignity, described in the former part of this verse. Ἐν ὑψηλοῖς , lit. in the high places. Const. with sat down, not with majesty. The phrase N.T.olxx, Psalm 92:4; Psalm 112:5. Ἐν τοῖς ὑψίστοις inthe highest (places ), in the Gospels, and only in doxologies. See Matthew 21:9; Mark 11:10; Luke 2:14. Ἐν τοῖς ἐπουρανίοις inthe heavenly (places ), only in Ephesians. See Ephesians 1:3, Ephesians 1:20; Ephesians 2:6; Ephesians 3:10; Ephesians 6:12. [source]
Hebrews 10:14 He hath perfected [τετελειωκεν]
Perfect active indicative of τελειοω — teleioō He has done what the old sacrifices failed to do (Hebrews 10:1). Them that are sanctified Articular participle (accusative case) present passive of αγιαζω — hagiazō (note perfect in Hebrews 10:10) either because of the process still going on or because of the repetition in so many persons as in Hebrews 2:11. [source]
Hebrews 10:17  []
Here again the writer adds “their iniquities” ( των ανομιων — tōn anomiōn ) to “sins” of Hebrews 8:12 and reads μνηστησομαι — mnēsthēsomai (first future passive) with ου μη — ou mē rather than μνηστω — mnēsthō (first aorist passive subjunctive) of Hebrews 8:12 (the more common idiom). It is uncertain also whether the writer means Hebrews 10:17 to be the principal clause with Hebrews 10:15 , Hebrews 10:16 as subordinate or the whole quotation to be subordinate to μετα το ειρηκεναι — meta to eirēkenai of Hebrews 10:15 with anacoluthon in Hebrews 10:18 . At any rate Hebrews 10:17 in the quotation does not follow immediately after Hebrews 10:16 as one can see in Hebrews 8:10-12 (skipping part of Hebrews 8:10 and all of Hebrews 8:11 ). [source]
Hebrews 10:19 Having therefore [εχοντες ουν]
The author now gives a second (the first in Hebrews 8:1-6) resumé of the five arguments concerning the superior priestly work of Christ (Hebrews 10:19-25) coupled with an earnest exhortation like that in Hebrews 4:14-16, with which he began the discussion, before he proceeds to treat at length the fifth and last one, the better promises in Christ (10:26-12:3). Boldness This is the dominant note all through the Epistle (Hebrews 3:6; Hebrews 4:16; Hebrews 10:19, Hebrews 10:35). They were tempted to give up Christ, to be quitters. Boldness (courage) is the need of the hour. Into the holy place That is, the heavenly sanctuary where Jesus is (Hebrews 6:18-20). This is the better sanctuary (Hebrews 9:1-12). By the blood of Jesus This is the better sacrifice just discussed (9:13-10:18). [source]
Hebrews 10:22 Let us draw near [προσερχωμετα]
Present middle volitive subjunctive as in Hebrews 4:16 with which exhortation the discussion began. There are three exhortations in Hebrews 10:22-25 (Let us draw near, προσερχωμετα — proserchōmetha let us hold fast, κατεχωμεν — katechōmen let us consider one another, κατανοωμεν αλληλους — katanoōmen allēlous). Four items are added to this first exhortation. With a true heart With loyalty and fealty. In fulness of faith See Hebrews 6:11 for this very phrase. Having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience Perfect passive participle of ραντιζω — rantizō with the accusative retained in the passive, an evident allusion to the sprinkling of blood in the old tabernacle (Hebrews 9:18-22) and the shedding of Christ‘s blood for the cleansing of our consciences (Hebrews 10:1-4). Cf. 1 Peter 1:2 for “the sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ.” Our body washed with pure water Perfect passive (or middle) of λουω — louō old verb to bathe, to wash. Accusative also retained if passive. υδατι — Hudati can be either locative (in) or instrumental (with). See Ephesians 5:26; Titus 3:5 for the use of λουτρον — loutron If the reference here is to baptism (quite doubtful), the meaning is a symbol (Dods) of the previous cleansing by the blood of Christ. [source]
Hebrews 10:27 Expectation [εκδοχη]
Usually reception or interpretation from εκδεχομαι — ekdechomai (Hebrews 11:10), only here in N.T. and in unusual sense like προσδοκια — prosdokia like απεκδεχομαι — apekdechomai (Romans 8:19, Romans 8:23, Romans 8:25), this sense apparently “coined by the writer” (Moffatt) from his use of εκδεχομαι — ekdechomai in Hebrews 10:13. The papyri have it in the sense of interpretation. A fierceness of fire An anger (zeal, jealousy) marked (genitive) by fire. Language kin to that in Isaiah 26:11; Zephaniah 1:18; Psalm 79:5. See also 2 Thessalonians 1:8-10 for a like picture of destined doom. Devour “To eat” (figuratively), present active infinitive. The adversaries Old double compound adjective (υπο εν αντιος — hupo class="translit"> en class="translit"> antios), in N.T. only here and Colossians 2:14. Those directly opposite. [source]
Hebrews 11:10 He looked for [εχεδεχετο]
Imperfect middle of εκδεχομαι — ekdechomai (see note on Hebrews 10:13) picturesque progressive imperfect, his steady and patient waiting in spite of disappointment. The foundations Not just “tents” Abraham set his steady gaze on heaven as his real home, being a mere pilgrim Old word from τεχνη — technē (craft) or trade (Acts 17:29; Acts 18:3), craftsman, artificer, in N.T. only here and Acts 19:24, Acts 19:38. Maker Old word from δημιος — dēmios (public) and εργον — ergon a worker for the public, artisan, framer, here only in N.T. [source]
Hebrews 2:5 For not unto angels [ου γαρ αγγελοις]
The author now proceeds to show (Hebrews 2:5-18) that the very humanity of Jesus, the Son of Man, likewise proves his superiority to angels. The world to come The new order, the salvation just described. See a like use of μελλω — mellō (as participle) with σωτηρια — sōtēria (Hebrews 1:14), αιων — aiōn (Hebrews 6:4.), αγατα — agatha (Hebrews 9:11; Hebrews 10:1), πολις — polis (Hebrews 13:14). Whereof we speak The author is discussing this new order introduced by Christ which makes obsolete the old dispensation of rites and symbols. God did not put this new order in charge of angels. [source]
Hebrews 3:7 Wherefore [διο]
Probably this inferential conjunction The peril of apostasy as shown by the example of the Israelites is presented with vividness and power. As the Holy Ghost saith (εαν ακουσητε — kathōs legei to pneuma to hagion). Just this phrase nowhere else in the N.T., except Acts 21:11 (Agabus), though practically the same idea in Hebrews 9:8; Hebrews 10:15. In 1 Timothy 4:1 the adjective “Holy” is wanting as in Rev 2; 3. But the writer quotes this Psalm as the Word of God and in Hebrews 4:7 attributes it to David. If ye shall hear (εαν — ean akousēte). Condition of third class with ακουω — ean and first aorist active subjunctive of akouō f0). [source]
Hebrews 2:11 He that sanctifieth [ο αγιαζων]
Present active articular participle of αγιαζω — hagiazō Jesus is the sanctifier (Hebrews 9:13.; Hebrews 13:12). They that are sanctified Present passive articular participle of αγιαζω — hagiazō It is a process here as in Hebrews 10:14, not a single act, though in Hebrews 10:10 the perfect passive indicative presents a completed state. Of one Referring to God as the Father of Jesus and of the “many sons” above (Hebrews 2:10) and in harmony with Hebrews 2:14 below. Even before the incarnation Jesus had a kinship with men though we are not sons in the full sense that he is. He is not ashamed Present passive indicative of επαισχυνομαι — epaischunomai old compound (Romans 1:16). Because of the common Father Jesus is not ashamed to own us as “brothers” (αδελπους — adelphous), unworthy sons though we be. [source]
Hebrews 4:3 Do enter [εισερχομετα]
Emphatic futuristic present middle indicative of εισερχομαι — eiserchomai We are sure to enter in, we who believe. He hath said Perfect active indicative for the permanent value of God‘s word as in Hebrews 1:13; Hebrews 4:4; Hebrews 10:9, Hebrews 10:13; Hebrews 13:5; Acts 13:34. God has spoken. That is enough for us. So he quotes again what he has in Hebrews 4:11 from Psalm 95:1-11. Although the works were finished Genitive absolute with concessive use of the participle. Old particle, in N.T. only here and Acts 14:17 (with verb). From the foundation of the world Καταβολη — Katabolē late word from καταβαλλω — kataballō usually laying the foundation of a house in the literal sense. In the N.T. usually with απο — apo (Matthew 25:44) or προ — pro (John 17:24) about the foundation of the world. [source]
Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore draw near [προσερχωμετα ουν]
Present active middle volitive subjunctive of προσερχομαι — proserchomai “Let us keep on coming to” our high priest, this sympathizing and great high priest. Instead of deserting him, let us make daily use of him. This verb in Hebrews means reverent approach for worship (Hebrews 7:25; Hebrews 10:1, Hebrews 10:22; Hebrews 11:6). Unto the throne of grace This old word Hence we should come “with boldness” Telling Jesus the whole story of our shortcomings. That we may receive mercy Purpose clause with ινα — hina and second aorist active subjunctive of λαμβανω — lambanō And find grace Second aorist active subjunctive of ευρισκω — heuriskō We are sure to gain both of these aims because Jesus is our high priest on the throne. To help us in time of need οητεια — Boētheia is old word (from βοητεω — boētheō Hebrews 2:18 which see), in N.T. only here and Acts 27:17. Ευκαιρος — Eukairos is an old word also (ευ — eu well, καιρος — kairos opportunity), only here in N.T. “For well-timed help,” “for help in the nick of time,” before too late. [source]
Hebrews 7:3 Without father, without mother, without genealogy [απατωρ αμητωρ αγενεαλογητος]
Alliteration like Romans 1:30, the first two old words, the third coined by the author (found nowhere else) and meaning simply “devoid of any genealogy.” The argument is that from silence, made much of by Philo, but not to be pressed. The record in Genesis tells nothing of any genealogy. Melchizedek stands alone. He is not to be understood as a miraculous being without birth or death. Melchizedek has been made more mysterious than he is by reading into this interpretation what is not there. Made like (τωι υιωι του τεου — aphōmoiōmenos). Perfect passive participle of υιος — aphomoioō old verb, to produce a facsimile or copy, only here in N.T. The likeness is in the picture drawn in Genesis, not in the man himself. Such artificial interpretation does not amount to proof, but only serves as a parallel or illustration. Unto the Son of God (μενει ιερευς — tōi huiōi tou theou). Associative instrumental case of εις το διηνεκες — huios Abideth a priest (εις τον αιωνα — menei hiereus). According to the record in Genesis, the only one in his line just as Jesus stands alone, but with the difference that Jesus continues priest in fact in heaven. Continually (eis to diēnekes). Old phrase (for the continuity) like eis ton aiōna in N.T. only in Hebrews (Hebrews 7:3; Hebrews 10:1, Hebrews 10:14, Hebrews 10:21). [source]
Hebrews 8:5 Serve [λατρευουσιν]
Present active indicative of λατρευω — latreuō for which verb see note on Matthew 4:10. A copy Dative case after λατρευουσιν — latreuousin See note on John 13:15 and note on Hebrews 4:11 for this interesting word. Shadow Dative case. Old word for which see note on Matthew 4:16; note on Mark 4:32; and note on Colossians 2:17. See same idea in Hebrews 9:23. For difference between σκια — skia and εικων — eikōn see Hebrews 10:1. Here “copy and shadow” form a practical hendiadys for “a shadowy outline” (Moffatt). Is warned of God Perfect passive indicative of χρηματιζω — chrēmatizō old verb (from χρημα — chrēma business) for which see note on Matthew 2:12, note on Matthew 2:22, and note on Luke 2:26. The word “God” is not used, but it is implied as in Acts 10:22; Hebrews 12:25. So in lxx, Josephus, and the papyri. For saith he Argument from God‘s command (Exodus 25:40). See that thou make Common Greek idiom with present active imperative of οραω — horaō and the volitive future of ποιεω — poieō without ινα — hina (asyndeton, Robertson, Grammar, p. 949). The pattern The very word used in Exodus 25:40 and quoted also by Stephen in Acts 7:44. For τυπος — tupos see note on John 20:25; note on Romans 6:17, and etc. The tabernacle was to be patterned after the heavenly model. [source]
Hebrews 9:9 Which [ητις]
“Which very thing,” the first tent Only in the Synoptic Gospels in the N.T. and Hebrews 9:9; Hebrews 11:19. See note on Matthew 13:3 for the word (from paraballō to place alongside). Here like παραβαλλω — tupos (type or shadow of “the heavenly reality,” Moffatt). For the time now present “For the present crisis “ Perfect active articular (repeated article) participle of παραβολη — enistēmi (intransitive), the age in which they lived, not the past, not the future. See 1 Corinthians 3:22; Romans 8:38 for contrast between σκηνης — enestōta and κατα συνειδησιν — mellonta This age of crisis, foreshadowed by the old tabernacle, pointed on to the richer fulfilment still to come. According to which Here the relative refers to τελειωσαι τον λατρευοντα — parabolē just mentioned, not to skēnēs See Hebrews 5:1; Hebrews 8:3. As touching the conscience For suneidēsis see 1 Corinthians 8:10; 1 Corinthians 10:17; Romans 2:15. This was the real failure of animal sacrifice (Hebrews 10:1-4). Make the worshipper perfect First aorist active infinitive (Hebrews 2:10). At best it was only ritual or ceremonial purification (Hebrews 7:11), that called for endless repetition (Hebrews 10:1-4). [source]
1 Peter 3:18 That he might bring us to God [ινα ημας προσαγαγηι τωι τεωι]
Purpose clause with ινα — hina with second aorist active subjunctive of προσαγω — prosagō and the dative case τωι τεωι — tōi theōi The MSS. vary between ημας — hēmās (us) and υμας — humās (you). The verb προσαγω — prosagō means to lead or bring to (Matthew 18:24), to approach God (cf. προσαγωγην — prosagōgēn in Ephesians 2:18), to present us to God on the basis of his atoning death for us, which has opened the way (Romans 3:25; Hebrews 10:19.) [source]
1 Peter 3:18 For sins [περι αμαρτιων]
“Concerning sins” (not his, but ours, 1 Peter 1:18). Περι — Peri (around, concerning) with αμαρτιας — hamartias in the regular phrase for the sin offering (Leviticus 5:7; Leviticus 6:30), though υπερ αμαρτιας — huper hamartias does occur (1 Peter 3:19-22). So in the N.T. we find both περι αμαρτιων — peri hamartiōn (Ezekiel 43:25) and υπερ αμαρτιων — huper hamartiōn (Hebrews 5:1).Once (απαχ — hapax). Once for all (Hebrews 9:28), not once upon a time (ποτε — pote).The righteous for the unrighteous Literally, “just for unjust” (no articles). See 1 Peter 2:19 for the sinlessness of Christ as the one perfect offering for sin. This is what gives Christ‘s blood value. He has no sin himself. Some men today fail to perceive this point.That he might bring us to God (ινα ημας προσαγαγηι τωι τεωι — hina hēmās prosagagēi tōi theōi). Purpose clause with ινα — hina with second aorist active subjunctive of προσαγω — prosagō and the dative case τωι τεωι — tōi theōi The MSS. vary between ημας — hēmās (us) and υμας — humās (you). The verb προσαγω — prosagō means to lead or bring to (Matthew 18:24), to approach God (cf. προσαγωγην — prosagōgēn in Ephesians 2:18), to present us to God on the basis of his atoning death for us, which has opened the way (Romans 3:25; Hebrews 10:19.)Being put to death in the flesh First aorist passive participle of τανατοω — thanatoō old verb (from τανατος — thanatos death), to put to death. Σαρκι — Sarki is locative case of σαρχ — sarx quickened in the spirit First aorist passive participle of ζωοποιεω — zōopoieō rare (Aristotle) verb (from ζωοποιος — zōopoios making alive), to make alive. The participles are not antecedent to απετανεν — apethanen but simultaneous with it. There is no such construction as the participle of subsequent action. The spirit of Christ did not die when his flesh did, but “was endued with new and greater powers of life” (Thayer). See 1 Corinthians 15:22 for the use of the verb for the resurrection of the body. But the use of the word πνευματι — pneumati (locative case) in contrast with σαρκι — sarki starts Peter‘s mind off in a long comparison by way of illustration that runs from Hebrews 5:3. The following verses have caused more controversy than anything in the Epistle. [source]
1 Peter 3:18 The righteous for the unrighteous [δικαιος υπερ αδικων]
Literally, “just for unjust” (no articles). See 1 Peter 2:19 for the sinlessness of Christ as the one perfect offering for sin. This is what gives Christ‘s blood value. He has no sin himself. Some men today fail to perceive this point.That he might bring us to God (ινα ημας προσαγαγηι τωι τεωι — hina hēmās prosagagēi tōi theōi). Purpose clause with ινα — hina with second aorist active subjunctive of προσαγω — prosagō and the dative case τωι τεωι — tōi theōi The MSS. vary between ημας — hēmās (us) and υμας — humās (you). The verb προσαγω — prosagō means to lead or bring to (Matthew 18:24), to approach God (cf. προσαγωγην — prosagōgēn in Ephesians 2:18), to present us to God on the basis of his atoning death for us, which has opened the way (Romans 3:25; Hebrews 10:19.)Being put to death in the flesh First aorist passive participle of τανατοω — thanatoō old verb (from τανατος — thanatos death), to put to death. Σαρκι — Sarki is locative case of σαρχ — sarx quickened in the spirit First aorist passive participle of ζωοποιεω — zōopoieō rare (Aristotle) verb (from ζωοποιος — zōopoios making alive), to make alive. The participles are not antecedent to απετανεν — apethanen but simultaneous with it. There is no such construction as the participle of subsequent action. The spirit of Christ did not die when his flesh did, but “was endued with new and greater powers of life” (Thayer). See 1 Corinthians 15:22 for the use of the verb for the resurrection of the body. But the use of the word πνευματι — pneumati (locative case) in contrast with σαρκι — sarki starts Peter‘s mind off in a long comparison by way of illustration that runs from 1 Peter 3:19-22. The following verses have caused more controversy than anything in the Epistle. [source]
1 John 2:28 We may have confidence [σχῶμεν παῤῥησίαν]
Rev., boldness. For the phrase have boldness, see 1 John 3:21; 1 John 4:17; 1 John 5:14; Hebrews 3:6; Hebrews 10:19; Philemon 1:8. For the word παῤῥησία boldnesssee on John 7:13; see on Acts 2:29. It is opposed, as here, to αἰσχύνομαι tobe ashamed, in Proverbs 13:5, where the Septuagint reads “a wicked man is ashamed ( αἰσχύνεται ) and shall not have boldness ( παῤῥησίαν ). Also in Philemon 1:20. Compare 2 Corinthians 3:12. The idea of free, open speech lies at the bottom of the word: coming before God's bar with nothing to conceal. The thought is embodied in the general confession of the Book of Common Prayer: “That we should not dissemble nor cloke them before the face of Almighty God our Heavenly Father, but confess them.” So John Wesley's Hymn:“Jesus, Thy blood and righteousnessMy beauty are, my glorious dress: 'Midst flaming worlds, in these arrayed,-DIVIDER-
With joy shall I lift up my head.Bold shall I stand in Thy great day,For who aught to my charge shall lay? Fully absolved through these I am, - From sin and fear, from guilt and shame.” [source]

1 John 3:5 To take away sins [ινα τας αμαρτιας αρηι]
Purpose clause with ινα — hina and first aorist active subjunctive of αιρω — airō as in John 1:29. In Isaiah 53:11 we have αναπερω — anapherō for bearing sins, but αιρω — airō properly means to lift up and carry away (John 2:16). So in Hebrews 10:4 we find απαιρεω — aphaireō and Hebrews 10:11 περιαιρεω — periaireō to take away sins completely (the complete expiation wrought by Christ on Calvary). The plural αμαρτιας — hamartias here, as in Colossians 1:14, not singular (collective sense) αμαρτιαν — hamartian as in John 1:29. [source]
1 John 3:5 Was manifested [επανερωτη]
Same form as in 1 John 3:2, but here of the Incarnation as in John 21:1, not of the second coming (1 John 2:28).To take away sins (ινα τας αμαρτιας αρηι — hina tas hamartias arēi). Purpose clause with ινα — hina and first aorist active subjunctive of αιρω — airō as in John 1:29. In Isaiah 53:11 we have αναπερω — anapherō for bearing sins, but αιρω — airō properly means to lift up and carry away (John 2:16). So in Hebrews 10:4 we find απαιρεω — aphaireō and Hebrews 10:11 περιαιρεω — periaireō to take away sins completely (the complete expiation wrought by Christ on Calvary). The plural αμαρτιας — hamartias here, as in Colossians 1:14, not singular (collective sense) αμαρτιαν — hamartian as in John 1:29.And in him is no sin “And sin (the sinful principle) in him is not.” As Jesus had claimed about himself (John 7:18; John 8:46) and as is repeatedly stated in the N.T. (2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 4:15; Hebrews 7:26; Hebrews 9:13). [source]
Revelation 5:6 As though it had been slain [ως εσπαγμενον]
Perfect passive predicate participle of σπαζω — sphazō old word, in N.T. only in Revelation 5:6, Revelation 5:9, Revelation 5:12; Revelation 6:4, Revelation 6:9; Revelation 13:3; Revelation 18:24; 1 John 3:12. ως — Hōs (as if) is used because the Lamb is now alive, but (in appearance) with the marks of the sacrifice. The Christ as the Lamb is both sacrifice and Priest (Hebrews 9:12.; Hebrews 10:11). [source]
Revelation 5:6 In the midst [εν μεσωι]
See Revelation 4:6 for this idiom. It is not quite clear where the Lamb was standing in the vision, whether close to the throne or in the space between the throne and the elders (perhaps implied by “came” in Revelation 5:7, but nearness to the throne is implied by Revelation 14:1; Acts 7:56; Hebrews 10:11).A Lamb (αρνιον — arnion). Elsewhere in the N.T. ο αμνος — ho amnos is used of Christ (John 1:29, John 1:36; Acts 8:32; 1 Peter 1:19 like Isaiah 53:7), but in the Apocalypse το αρνιον — to arnion occurs for the Crucified Christ 29 times in twelve chapters.Standing Second perfect active (intransitive of ιστημι — histēmi) neuter accusative singular (grammatical gender like αρνιον — arnion), though some MSS. read εστηκως — hestēkōs (natural gender masculine and nominative in spite of ειδον — eidon construction according to sense).As though it had been slain (ως εσπαγμενον — hōs esphagmenon). Perfect passive predicate participle of σπαζω — sphazō old word, in N.T. only in Revelation 5:6, Revelation 5:9, Revelation 5:12; Revelation 6:4, Revelation 6:9; Revelation 13:3; Revelation 18:24; 1 John 3:12. ως — Hōs (as if) is used because the Lamb is now alive, but (in appearance) with the marks of the sacrifice. The Christ as the Lamb is both sacrifice and Priest (Hebrews 9:12.; Hebrews 10:11).Having Construction according to sense again with masculine nominative participle instead of εχοντα — echonta (masculine accusative singular) or εχον — echon (neuter accusative singular). Seven horns Fulness of power (the All-powerful one) is symbolized by seven.Seven eyes (οπταλμους επτα — ophthalmous hepta). Like Zechariah 3:9; Zechariah 4:10 and denotes here, as there, omniscience. Here they are identified with the seven Spirits of Christ, while in Revelation 1:4 the seven Spirits are clearly the Holy Spirit of God (Revelation 3:1), and blaze like torches (Revelation 4:5), like the eyes of Christ (Revelation 1:14). The Holy Spirit is both Spirit of God and of Christ (Romans 8:9).Sent forth Perfect passive predicate participle of αποστελλω — apostellō masculine plural (agreeing with οι — hoi and οπταλμους — ophthalmous in gender), but some MSS. have απεσταλμενα — apestalmena agreeing with the nearer πνευματα — pneumata f0). [source]
Revelation 5:6 Standing [εστηκος]
Second perfect active (intransitive of ιστημι — histēmi) neuter accusative singular (grammatical gender like αρνιον — arnion), though some MSS. read εστηκως — hestēkōs (natural gender masculine and nominative in spite of ειδον — eidon construction according to sense).As though it had been slain (ως εσπαγμενον — hōs esphagmenon). Perfect passive predicate participle of σπαζω — sphazō old word, in N.T. only in Revelation 5:6, Revelation 5:9, Revelation 5:12; Revelation 6:4, Revelation 6:9; Revelation 13:3; Revelation 18:24; 1 John 3:12. ως — Hōs (as if) is used because the Lamb is now alive, but (in appearance) with the marks of the sacrifice. The Christ as the Lamb is both sacrifice and Priest (Hebrews 9:12.; Hebrews 10:11).Having Construction according to sense again with masculine nominative participle instead of εχοντα — echonta (masculine accusative singular) or εχον — echon (neuter accusative singular). Seven horns Fulness of power (the All-powerful one) is symbolized by seven.Seven eyes (οπταλμους επτα — ophthalmous hepta). Like Zechariah 3:9; Zechariah 4:10 and denotes here, as there, omniscience. Here they are identified with the seven Spirits of Christ, while in Revelation 1:4 the seven Spirits are clearly the Holy Spirit of God (Revelation 3:1), and blaze like torches (Revelation 4:5), like the eyes of Christ (Revelation 1:14). The Holy Spirit is both Spirit of God and of Christ (Romans 8:9).Sent forth Perfect passive predicate participle of αποστελλω — apostellō masculine plural (agreeing with οι — hoi and οπταλμους — ophthalmous in gender), but some MSS. have απεσταλμενα — apestalmena agreeing with the nearer πνευματα — pneumata f0). [source]

What do the individual words in Hebrews 10:1 mean?

A shadow for having the law of the coming good things not themselves the form things each year with the same sacrifices which they offer to the continuous never is able those drawing near to perfect
Σκιὰν γὰρ ἔχων νόμος τῶν μελλόντων ἀγαθῶν οὐκ αὐτὴν τὴν εἰκόνα πραγμάτων κατ’ ἐνιαυτὸν ταῖς αὐταῖς θυσίαις ἃς προσφέρουσιν εἰς τὸ διηνεκὲς οὐδέποτε δύναται τοὺς προσερχομένους τελειῶσαι

Σκιὰν  A  shadow 
Parse: Noun, Accusative Feminine Singular
Root: σκιά  
Sense: shadow.
νόμος  law 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: νόμος  
Sense: anything established, anything received by usage, a custom, a law, a command.
τῶν  of  the 
Parse: Article, Genitive Neuter Plural
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
μελλόντων  coming 
Parse: Verb, Present Participle Active, Genitive Neuter Plural
Root: μέλλω  
Sense: to be about.
ἀγαθῶν  good  things 
Parse: Adjective, Genitive Neuter Plural
Root: ἀγαθός 
Sense: of good constitution or nature.
αὐτὴν  themselves 
Parse: Personal / Possessive Pronoun, Accusative Feminine 3rd Person Singular
Root: αὐτός  
Sense: himself, herself, themselves, itself.
εἰκόνα  form 
Parse: Noun, Accusative Feminine Singular
Root: εἰκών  
Sense: an image, figure, likeness.
πραγμάτων  things 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Neuter Plural
Root: πρᾶγμα  
Sense: that which has been done, a deed, an accomplished fact.
κατ’  each 
Parse: Preposition
Root: κατά 
Sense: down from, through out.
ἐνιαυτὸν  year 
Parse: Noun, Accusative Masculine Singular
Root: ἐνιαυτός  
Sense: a year, in a wider sense, for some fixed definite period of time.
ταῖς  with  the 
Parse: Article, Dative Feminine Plural
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
αὐταῖς  same 
Parse: Personal / Possessive Pronoun, Dative Feminine 3rd Person Plural
Root: αὐτός  
Sense: himself, herself, themselves, itself.
θυσίαις  sacrifices 
Parse: Noun, Dative Feminine Plural
Root: θυσία  
Sense: a sacrifice, victim.
προσφέρουσιν  they  offer 
Parse: Verb, Present Indicative Active, 3rd Person Plural
Root: προσφέρω  
Sense: to bring to, lead to.
διηνεκὲς  continuous 
Parse: Adjective, Accusative Neuter Singular
Root: διηνεκής  
Sense: continuously, continuous.
οὐδέποτε  never 
Parse: Adverb
Root: οὐδέποτε  
Sense: never.
δύναται  is  able 
Parse: Verb, Present Indicative Middle or Passive, 3rd Person Singular
Root: δύναμαι  
Sense: to be able, have power whether by virtue of one’s own ability and resources, or of a state of mind, or through favourable circumstances, or by permission of law or custom.
τοὺς  those 
Parse: Article, Accusative Masculine Plural
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
προσερχομένους  drawing  near 
Parse: Verb, Present Participle Middle or Passive, Accusative Masculine Plural
Root: προσέρχομαι  
Sense: to come to, approach.
τελειῶσαι  to  perfect 
Parse: Verb, Aorist Infinitive Active
Root: τελειόω  
Sense: to make perfect, complete.